Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine – Specialist Travel Protection at Corbett Pharmacy Droitwich Travel Clinic

Introduction: Why I Advise Travellers About the Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

As Chief Pharmacist and Travel Clinic Lead at Corbett Pharmacy in Droitwich, I see many patients preparing for exciting trips across Europe. While most people think of travel vaccines as something for Asia, Africa, or South America, there’s one important vaccine relevant much closer to home – the Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) vaccine.

TBE is a viral brain infection spread by tick bites in parts of Europe and Asia. Many travellers are unaware of it, yet if you’re planning outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or trekking in forested areas, the risk is real. The infection can cause severe complications, including long-term neurological problems.

➡️ If your plans involve rural Europe or Asia, you should seriously consider the TBE vaccine: Book Your Appointment Here.

What is Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE)?

Tick-Borne Encephalitis is caused by a virus spread through the bite of infected ticks, commonly the Ixodes tick (also known as deer ticks or forest ticks).

Symptoms of TBE include:

• Fever and flu-like illness

• Headache and muscle pain

• Nausea and fatigue

• In some cases: brain swelling (encephalitis), paralysis, or long-term complications

The disease often develops in two stages – starting with mild flu-like symptoms, followed by a second phase that can involve severe neurological illness.

You can read more here: Fit for Travel – Tick-Borne Encephalitis.

Where is Tick-Borne Encephalitis Found?

TBE is common in parts of Europe and Asia. Risk is highest in forested or grassy areas where ticks thrive.

High-risk regions include:

• Central and Eastern Europe – Austria, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic

• Northern Europe – Scandinavia and the Baltic states

• Russia – especially rural regions

• East Asia – parts of China and Japan

Even popular holiday spots like Austria, Switzerland, and the Baltics carry TBE risk for hikers, campers, and outdoor travellers.

➡️ Planning an outdoor trip in Europe? Book your Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine before you go.

How Does the TBE Vaccine Work?

The Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine protects against the virus by stimulating your immune system to produce protective antibodies.

Vaccine schedule at Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic:

• Three doses required for full protection:

  • Dose 1: Day 0

  • Dose 2: 1–3 months later

  • Dose 3: 5–12 months after dose 2

• Provides protection for up to 3 years

• Boosters available for ongoing risk

Even if you don’t complete the full course before travel, two doses provide good short-term protection.

➡️ Learn more: Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine – Droitwich Travel Clinic

Who Should Get the Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine?

I recommend the TBE vaccine if you are:

• Travelling to rural or forested areas of Europe or Asia

• Planning outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, or camping

• Volunteering, working, or studying in rural regions

• Travelling with children (as they are at higher risk from tick bites)

• Spending extended time outdoors between spring and autumn, when ticks are most active

Even short-term travellers can benefit if they’ll be exposed to outdoor environments.

TBE vs. Other Infections from Ticks

Many travellers ask me how TBE compares with other tick-borne illnesses.

Ticks can transmit multiple diseases, but TBE is the only one with a licensed vaccine available in the UK.

Other Vaccines Often Needed Alongside TBE

If you’re travelling to rural or outdoor areas, you may also need:

• Tetanus – for wounds and cuts while outdoors

• Rabies – especially if you’re travelling in rural Asia

• Hepatitis A – common across developing regions

• Typhoid – for food and waterborne protection

➡️ We can plan your complete travel vaccine schedule in one consultation: Book Now

Tick Bite Prevention Tips

Even if you’re vaccinated, it’s important to take precautions against tick bites:

• Wear long sleeves and trousers in grassy or forested areas

• Use insect repellent containing DEET

• Stick to marked trails rather than tall grass

• Check your body daily for ticks (especially children)

• Remove ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers

Side Effects of the TBE Vaccine

The Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine is very safe.

Common mild side effects:

• Redness or soreness at the injection site

• Mild fever or headache

• Fatigue

Rare side effects:

• Allergic reaction (extremely rare)

I always review your medical history before vaccination to ensure it’s right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions – Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

1. Do I really need the TBE vaccine for Europe?
If you’re only visiting cities, probably not. But for rural hiking, camping, or outdoor activities, it’s strongly recommended.

2. How many doses do I need?
Three doses for full, long-term protection. Two doses provide good short-term cover.

3. Can children get the TBE vaccine?
Yes – it’s suitable for children over 1 year old.

4. How long does protection last?
Up to 3 years. Boosters extend protection further.

5. Is TBE common in the UK?
No, but there have been a handful of cases reported. The main risk is abroad in Europe and Asia.

6. Is it available on the NHS?
Not for travel purposes – it’s a private vaccine, available at clinics like ours.

7. What happens if I get a tick bite abroad?
Remove the tick promptly and seek medical advice if symptoms develop. Vaccination is your best prevention against TBE.

Why Choose Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic for Your TBE Vaccine?

Patients across Droitwich, Worcester, and Worcestershire trust us because:

• We stock the full Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine course

• I (Aran Bassi) personally carry out every consultation

• We offer same-week appointments for travellers

• We combine TBE with other travel vaccines in one visit

• Conveniently located at 36 Corbett Avenue, Droitwich WR9 7BE

➡️ Book your Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine now

Conclusion: Don’t Let Ticks Ruin Your Adventure

If you’re planning outdoor activities in rural Europe or Asia, the Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine is one of the best protections you can take with you. It’s safe, effective, and gives you peace of mind when exploring nature.

At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, I’ll make sure you’re fully protected with the right vaccines for your trip.

➡️ Book your TBE vaccine appointment today

Written by:
Aran Bassi
Chief Pharmacist & Travel Clinic Lead
Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic
36 Corbett Avenue, Droitwich, WR9 7BE
📞 01905 795618